Arrowroot
Maranta arundinacea
None
About this plant
Maranta arundinacea, commonly known as Arrowroot, is a tropical plant grown mainly for its edible starch-rich rhizomes. It has broad, green leaves and grows as a low, spreading plant. Arrowroot starch is used in cooking and baking as a thickener. The plant is also appreciated for its easy care and shade tolerance.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Maranta
- Family
- Marantaceae
- Higher classification
- Order Zingiberales
- Plant type
- Perennial
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- Central and South America
- Distribution
- Native to the tropical Americas, it is cultivated in tropical regions worldwide including parts of Asia, Africa, and the Caribbean.
Care
- Light preference
- Partial shade
- Suitable locations
- Indoor, Outdoor, Greenhouse, Balcony
- Preferred window facing
- East-facing, North-facing, Northeast-facing, Northwest-facing
- Watering frequency
- Moderate
- Watering interval
- 3–7 days
- Humidity
- High
- Minimum
- 15 °C
- Maximum
- 30 °C
- Optimal
- 20-28 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 9-11
- Soil pH
- 5.5-7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)
- Soil type
- well-draining loam, rich in organic matter
Watering. Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Reduce watering in cooler months.
Fertilizing. Feed with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 4 to 6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Avoid over-fertilizing as it can harm the plant.
Maranta arundinacea is a hardy plant that prefers indirect light and moderate watering. It can tolerate shade well and is generally resistant to diseases. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot. It requires low maintenance and is suitable for beginners.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Division, Cuttings
- Care difficulty
- Easy
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- Yes
- Flowering period
- summer
Broad green leaves with a smooth texture and occasional small flowers that are not very showy.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Non-toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Non-toxic
- Weed potential
- Not considered a weed
Non-toxic to humans and pets. Safe to keep around children and animals.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Low
- Allergy triggers
- Sap or latex
- Pollen level
- Low
Maranta arundinacea is generally safe and unlikely to cause allergies. However, people sensitive to plant sap or pollen should handle it gently to avoid skin irritation. There are no common allergy concerns with this plant.
Common problems
Overwatering can cause root rot and yellowing leaves. Too much direct sunlight may scorch the leaves. Pests are rare but watch for spider mites or aphids.
Uses
Grown mainly for its edible starch used in cooking. Also used as an ornamental plant for shade gardens and indoor decoration.
Notes
Prune dead or yellow leaves to keep the plant healthy. Repot every 2-3 years to refresh soil and provide room for growth. Prefers warm temperatures and high humidity; mist leaves if air is dry.